The NHS.uk webpage which offers advice on the possible signs and symptoms of cancer has seen an increase of over 50 per cent in the number of visits since the announcement was made about the King's cancer diagnosis.

The latest statistics from NHS England reveal that in the 24 hours following the Buckingham Palace announcement, visits to the page on cancer signs and symptoms rose to 14,668 compared to a daily average of 9,737 last week (29 – 30 January).

The numbers peaked in the hour following the initial statement, with 1,530 visits during that time – an average of one visit every three seconds.

NHS England’s national clinical director for cancer, Professor Peter Johnson said:“Talking about cancer helps save lives, and having more people looking at advice like this on how to spot the possible signs and symptoms of cancer is really important.

“One in two of us will develop some form of cancer in our lifetime – but thanks to continued progress, more cancers are now being diagnosed at an early stage than ever before and survival rates are at an all-time high.

“Detecting cancer early gives people the best chance of successful treatment, so I would encourage anyone to visit their GP if they have worrying symptoms, and to take up screening appointments when they receive them.”